200 Miles of Devotion

Paws on pilgrimage, a faithful friend Walked beside his master, 'til journey's end But Pandharpur's crowds, a moment's distraction Loyal companionship faced subtraction Ten days of travel, now lost in a blink Human hearts are heavy, beginning to sink Searched high and low, called out his name But the holy town's chaos swallowed the same Reluctant goodbyes, heavy steps homeward bound Prayers whispered for the friend yet unfound But what science sees as the nose and brain Love is known as a bond that can't be slain Two hundred miles, a canine odyssey Guided by more than eyes can see Scent molecules dancing on the breeze Leading him home with invisible keys Magnetic fields, a compass in his cells Guiding him true over hills and dells Memories of sights, sounds, and smells A map in his mind where devotion dwells Endurance powered by love's strong fuel Determination, no mere stubborn mule Problem-solving with each step, each turn Finding the path home, his only concern When he appeared, tails and spirits were high Garlands and processions reached the sky Science explains, but can't fully measure The depth of relief, the reunion's treasure For in this tale of a dog's return Lies a truth that makes our hearts yearn Be it human or canine, love knows no bound In 200 miles or just around the ground So next time you look in your pet's eyes Remember the miracle that therein lies Not just neurons, instincts, or evolved senses But a love that defies all consequences In every wag, every loyal gaze Lies a devotion that amazes A bond so deep, so pure, so true That finds its way home, always to you